Four high school students are getting a firsthand look at today’s manufacturing world. A unique pilot program with Northwest Technical College is preparing students for life outside of the classroom and inside the real world. “It really gives students the opportunity, early on in their career when they choose to, to make a decision whether they want to go into pre-engineering or quite possibly they want to go into a full mechatronics program,” said instructor Mark Dockter.

Students spend time online learning, but then ditch their books for a more hands on approach. They spend three days working in the lab where they learn skills in mechanical fabrication and AC/DC electrical engineering. But past all of the wires, nuts, and bolts lies a deeper focus. Instructors hope the new program will create a pipeline of students for local companies. And, finding that first job might not be too far in the distance for some of these students. After graduation, they’ll be qualified to walk right into the workforce.

By — Lakeland PBS

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